Carter Goodby BEM in front of an LNER Azuma train

LNER Colleague Awarded British Empire Medal for Services to Diversity and Inclusion

An LNER colleague has spoken of his pride on being awarded a British Empire Medal in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours for services to championing diversity and inclusion in the rail industry.

Carter Goodby BEM, from York, joined LNER six years ago, working as a frontline colleague helping customers at stations, and has progressed to a Business Partner in the People team. Throughout this time, he has consistently shown passion and dedication to enhancing equity, diversity, and inclusivity for people in the rail industry.

Within LNER, Carter is Chair of the company’s LGBT+ network, ‘TOGETHER’, leading initiatives, including planning York Pride, where he unites LGBT+ networks from across the railway. Carter is also a leadership member of ‘Journey’ – the Transport industry’s LGBT+ group – where he drives community initiatives and is encouraging industry-wide support for London Pride 2026.

Alongside this, Carter volunteers as a committee member for Women in Rail and is on the leadership team for Rail Unites for Inclusion where he organises events to support, encourage, and bring together hundreds of members across the country.

Speaking of his honour, Carter said: “Being awarded a British Empire Medal is a huge honour and something I am very proud of. I am incredibly passionate about equity and inclusivity in the rail industry and want to make the railway a place where everyone can feel welcomed, valued, and included.

“My work is not for recognition, but it is always lovely to be appreciated by colleagues in the industry. The award is a huge surprise, and I feel humbled to receive it.”

Paula Bullock, People Director at LNER, said: “We are hugely proud of Carter and are thrilled that his passion and dedication have been honoured in such a special way. He has an unwavering commitment to making the rail industry an inclusive environment for everyone who is part of it and his work has already seen positive change.

“At LNER, we have four valued behaviours: Bring Passion, Be Bold, Always Care, and Own It. Carter’s work consistently delivers on those for his colleagues within LNER, the wider industry, and our customers, and it is fitting that he is recognised with this award. Congratulations Carter!”